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When you become a parent, every dollar counts more than ever. That’s especially the case if you’re a single mom and have to cover your family’s expenses on just one salary. Fortunately, if you know where to look, there’s lots of financial help available for single parents, especially those classified as low- or middle-income. Here are a few of the programs and grants that can help you to save money on everything from taxes to child care.

Federal Programs and Grants for Low-Income Single Moms

The government offers a number of financial grants for low-income single parents across a wide variety of programs, including food, housing, child care and scholarships. To qualify for assistance, you must meet certain criteria that vary based on the program and the state where you live. Here are a few that you may find most helpful:

Federal financial grants

The following can help you to pay your bills and save money on your taxes:

The Women, Infants and Children Program (WIC): Many low-income women who are pregnant or have children under the age of 5 can get financial assistance through this program. It’s run by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).

Federal tax credits: You may qualify for tax breaks like the Earned Income Tax Credit, a benefit for working people with low to moderate income. The Child Tax Credit gives you a tax break of up to $1,000 for each child living with you, though you won’t receive a refund if the credit is more than the taxes you owe. The Additional Child Tax Credit gives you a payment for each child, even when you don't owe any tax.

Affordable or free health insurance

Many single moms qualify for Medicaid. Medicaid is low-cost or free health insurance provided by the state in which you live. If you make too much money to qualify for Medicaid, you may still be able to sign up your kids (or yourself, if you’re pregnant) for insurance through the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP).

Federal scholarships for single moms

If you’re considering going back to school to get your bachelor’s degree, the U.S. Department of Education (DOE) offers Pell grants. Qualifying students-to-be can receive up to $5,775 as of 2016, which can be used at any of the 5,400 participating colleges and universities. Unlike a loan, the money from this grant doesn’t have to be repaid. To apply, fill out a FAFSA form.

Federal rent and housing assistance for single moms

Housing Choice Vouchers: Formerly known as “Section 8,” this program, funded by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), offers low-income families rental housing in privately-owned buildings — from single-family homes to apartment units. You may even be able to convert your public housing rent into a mortgage payment. To qualify, your household income must be 50 percent or less of the median income where you live .

Federal and state childcare programs for single parents

Child care assistance programs (CCAP): Your state’s Department of Education offers affordable child care to low-income families while they are working, attending school or training. You’ll pay a certain percentage of the total cost of child care depending on your income and the size of your family.

Head Start: Using federal funding, your state runs a Head Start program to prepare kids from birth to age 5 for school. These free child care programs offer resources to support your child’s education and health and promote family relationships and well-being.

Finding and applying for federal grants

Learn which programs you qualify for by checking out www.211.org, which offers links to health services and housing and heating assistance. Or check out the U.S. government’s benefits page. It includes information on over 1,000 federal and state programs, some specifically for single moms, including grants for victims of domestic violence.

Local religious organizations and charities

Many local religious outlets and charities have programs in place to help single mothers, including shelters, food pantries and clothing. The services they offer are generally similar to government programs, but they may not have as many income requirements for single mothers to meet. That said, you’ll likely still have to provide some information, including your sources of income. Local offices for the United Way and the YWCA often have assistance officers who can direct you to help, or check for charities in your area at guidestar.org.

Food banks

Food banks typically are private nonprofits that provide meal assistance for needy families. Food is donated by local businesses, individuals and restaurants to help you stock up on healthy eats for you and your children. Find a local food bank through FoodPantries.org or FeedingAmerica.org.